Criollo Lasagna (pasticho Criollo)

Criollo Lasagna, also known as Pasticho Criollo, is a traditional Venezuelan dish that combines layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy bechamel sauce. This hearty and flavorful lasagna is a favorite for gatherings and special occasions.

Contains Dairy Contains Gluten Main Course Venezuelan Venezuelan Cuisine Lunch Dinner Cheesy
Criollo Lasagna (pasticho Criollo)

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
  • 12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
  • 4 cups bechamel sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, and cook until the vegetables are soft.
  2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in the broth and white wine, if using. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of bechamel sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles on top.
  4. Spread 1/3 of the meat sauce over the noodles, followed by 1/3 of the remaining bechamel sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of bechamel sauce and cheese on top.
  5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
30 minutes
Cooking time:
1 hour
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
450 per serving
Carbohydrates
35g
Protein
25g
Fat
20g

Supplies

9x13 inch baking dish Foil

Tools

Large skillet Baking sheet Cooking spoon

Serving suggestions

Serve the Criollo Lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a time-saving option, prepare the meat sauce and bechamel sauce in advance and assemble the lasagna when ready to bake.

Cost

$20